Gilbert Arenas flags next superstar after LeBron James to face brutal Michael Jordan comparison slander

Modified Apr 14, 2025 18:01 GMT

NBA: Los Angeles Lakers at Boston Celtics - Source: Imagn — Gilbert Arenas flags next superstar after LeBron James to face brutal Michael Jordan comparison (Source: Imagn)

Dating back to when he entered the league back in 2003, LeBron James has faced more than his fair share of criticism from the media. As his career approaches its final stages, one former player cited who he believes is next in line to face similar treatment.

During a recent episode of his Gil's Arena podcast, Gilbert Arenas touched on LeBron and the treatment he's received from the media over the past two decades. Now at the age of 40, the league has to start preparing for his historic journey to reach its end. When that time comes, the media is going to need a new target to zero in on. Even though he isn't talked about much now, Arenas feels he knows who is going to take the LA Lakers star's place.

When it comes to who might face endless criticism upon LeBron James' retirement, Arenas went with Boston Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum. The former All-Star also brought up Michael Jordan comparisons being a major tell regarding the media and how discourse unfolds.

"The lob is when Bron is gone and they done whopping his a** and doing all that, you next," Arenas said about Tatum.

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"Anybody that they say is the next Michael Jordan is who gets the hate."

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Despite winning a championship and gold medal last season, Tatum has been one of the least talked about stars in the NBA today. Arenas doesn't seem fazed by this, as he confidently believes the Celtics' star will fill LeBron James' shoes in the media when the time comes. Before that, Tatum hopes to add to his legacy by leading the Celtics to back-to-back titles.

About the author

Kevin McCormick is a basketball writer at Sportskeeda with over four years of experience in journalism and a bachelor's degree in Sports Management Marketing from Holy Family University.

Kevin has worked with various notable outlets throughout his career, including 97.3 ESPN, ClutchPoints, Heavy Sports, and Sports Illustrated/FanNation, before joining Sportskeeda in March 2022.

Specializing in NBA and WNBA coverage, Kevin's passion for basketball stems from his hometown team, the Philadelphia 76ers. Among his favorite players are Kevin Durant, Chet Holmgren, and Steph Curry, while his all-time favorites include Magic Johnson and Larry Bird.

Kevin holds Coach K in high regard for the large input he's had on the game helping mold players across multiple generations. Kevin believes the iconic rivalry between Larry Bird and Magic Johnson helped elevate the league to its current status.

Through his writing, Kevin provides in-depth analysis and insights into player and coach quotes. He prioritizes sourcing information from credible and reliable outlets.

Kevin enjoys reading, aiming to finish at least one book per month, and he is a big fan of music.

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Edited by Kevin McCormick